A family holiday should be exactly what it says: a wonderful treat for all the family. The trouble is that what you find relaxing, entertaining and revitalising may not be the same as your little ones. So the only way to ensure that your children come home from your next holiday feeling as refreshed, and with as many precious memories, as you is to make sure the hotel you choose has plenty to keep them happy too.
While the point of a family holiday is to spend time together, it’s also great to know that a hotel has childcare facilities for those odd times when you want to do something alone. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two or an hour or two in the spa, it’s great to be able to relax knowing that your little ones are having the time of their lives!
To this end I’ve tracked down some wonderful Sicily holidays which offer the very highest level of childcare: everything from cookery lessons by expert chefs to boat trips and horse riding.
Little VIP Guests at the Verdura Resort
If you are looking for a resort where children are not just encouraged but are treated like VIPs then you should try the Verdura Resort in Sicily. Holidays for little ones begin here with a personalised greeting including their very own ‘passport’, newspaper and colouring book. The welcome carries on in the bedrooms with small-sized bathrobes, slippers and furniture just for them.
For parents one of the hardest things about travelling with very young family members can be all the equipment you need to bring with you. But don’t worry, because the Verdura Resort has thought of that; if required, the hotel will equip rooms with bottle sterilisers, bath equipment, bibs, night lights and nappies. Older children will find games and books appropriate to their age range.
Sporty youngsters will love the range of sports on offer including football, tennis and beach volleyball, and that’s before they’ve even begun to explore the wide range of water sports available from the resort’s private beach. Best of all though is the Verdura Kids Club, affectionately known as Verduland. Staffed by fully trained professionals, Verduland features its own pool and playground, as well as indoor space with a rest area, kitchen, TV room and even a science lab!
Lots of Smiles at Belmond Villa Sant’ Andrea
One of the reason people book Sicily holidays for their family is the legendary child-friendly attitude of the Sicilians, and nowhere is this more evident than in the Belmond Villa Sant’ Andrea with its dedicated Smile Club. The kids’ club offers a range of activities specially designed for the youngest members of your family. From boat trips and horse riding in the local area to craft activities including jewellery making with shells from the beach and cookery lessons in Sicilian cuisine, the activities are designed to help your child get the most out of their time in Sicily.
The youth-centred approach doesn’t end there, either. The rooms (which are interconnecting for both parental peace of mind and privacy) feature little robes and slippers created just for them and the restaurant has a special children’s menu too. And when you’re ready to spend some wonderful family time together, you can head down to the private beach, protected in a beautiful horseshoe bay, and play in the sand or paddle in the sea.
A family holiday is such a precious time that it’s worth getting it right. Childcare facilities can make all the difference, turning your perfect holiday into their perfect holiday too.
Martin Wynn
